CITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL Geography Project

On Agriculture II-Cash Crops

ALEEF MUAZZIZ
X-F
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my Geography teacher, Ms.

Dipanwita De Choudhury, for her constant guidance, support, and
encouragement throughout the preparation of this project on Agriculture II-
Cash Crops. Her valuable insights and patience have been a great source
of inspiration, and I am truly grateful for the knowledge and skills I have
gained under her mentorship.
I also extend my sincere thanks to our respected Principal, Mrs. Sangeeta
Banerjee, and our Senior Principal, Ms. Manjit Batra, for giving me the
golden opportunity to work on this project. Their belief in my potential and
their continuous support have motivated me to put forth my best e orts in
this work.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my parents for their
unwavering love, support, and understanding. Their encouragement has
been a pillar of strength, and they have always been there to guide me
through every step of my academic journey.
Finally, I express my sincere gratitude to my friends for their invaluable
help, constructive suggestions, and for being a constant source of
motivation throughout this project.
I am deeply grateful to all of you for your contribution to the completion of
this project.

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 INDEX

S. NO TITLE PG. NO.

1. INTRODUCTION 2

2. AGRICULTURAL SEASONS 3-4

3. RICE 5-8
4. WHEAT 9-11

5. PULSES 12-13

6. BIBLIOGRAPHY 14
7. PICTURE GALLERY 15

____________________ ____________________

Signature Of Examiner Signature Of Teacher

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 INTRODUCTION

Agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy, providing employment

to a large portion of the population and playing a crucial role in the
country's development. Among the various types of crops grown, food
crops hold primary importance as they are essential for ensuring food
security and sustaining the population. This project focuses on the major
food crops of India—rice, wheat, maize, millets, and pulses—which form
the staple diet of millions of people.
The objective of this project is to understand the climatic and soil
requirements, methods of cultivation, and geographical distribution of
these crops. By studying these aspects, we can appreciate the regional
diversity of Indian agriculture and the challenges faced by farmers in
di erent parts of the country. The project also highlights the importance of
modern techniques and government initiatives in improving crop
productivity and sustainability.

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 AGRICULTURAL SEASONS

Kharif Crops
Kharif crops are grown during the monsoon season, which usually begins in
June and lasts until October. These crops are sown with the arrival of the
southwest monsoon and harvested at its retreat. The Kharif season is
characterized by hot and humid weather with heavy rainfall, which is ideal
for certain crops. Since most Kharif crops are rain-fed, their growth and
yield depend heavily on the timing and amount of monsoon rainfall. Major
Kharif crops include rice, maize, bajra (pearl millet), jowar (sorghum), arhar
(pigeon pea), and cotton. These crops are widely cultivated in regions with
good monsoon coverage, especially in eastern, northeastern, and southern
parts of India.

Rabi Crops
Rabi crops are sown in winter, usually from October to December, and
harvested in the spring months of March and April. Unlike Kharif crops,
Rabi crops are grown in cooler, drier weather and depend more on irrigation
rather than rainfall. However, some winter rain brought by western
disturbances can benefit these crops, especially in northern India. Rabi
crops require a cool growing season and bright sunshine at the time of
harvesting. The most important Rabi crop is wheat, followed by barley,
gram (chana), mustard, and peas. These crops thrive in well-irrigated areas,
especially in states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya
Pradesh.

Zayad Kharif Crops

Zayad Kharif crops are cultivated during the hot summer months,
particularly between May and early July, just before the onset of the main
Kharif season. Since this period is extremely dry and hot, these crops rely

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entirely on irrigation. They are usually short-duration crops that mature
quickly, allowing farmers to utilize their fields e ectively between major
seasons. Examples of Zayad Kharif crops include green gram (moong),
black gram (urad), sesame (til), and early varieties of maize. These crops
not only increase total agricultural production but also support soil
enrichment, especially when pulses are grown.

Zayad Rabi Crops

Zayad Rabi crops are grown in the short interval between the Kharif harvest
and the sowing of Rabi crops, typically during September and October.
During this period, the soil retains moisture from the recent monsoon rains,
which helps in the growth of short-duration crops. Irrigation is also used to
supplement water needs. Zayad Rabi crops are generally fast-growing and
include vegetables like spinach, radish, turnip, as well as early mustard
and cowpea. These crops allow farmers to make use of otherwise idle land,
enhancing productivity and supporting food availability throughout the
year.

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 RICE

Rice is one of the most important staple food crops of India, playing a central role in
both the Indian diet and economy. It is the primary source of food for over 65% of the
Indian population, especially in the eastern and southern regions of the country. Rice
cultivation supports millions of farmers, particularly in rural areas, and has deep
cultural and social significance. The crop is not only crucial for food security but also
contributes significantly to the agricultural GDP of India. In addition to consumption,
rice is also used in industrial applications, such as making rice bran oil, flour, and
animal feed. It holds a special place in festivals and cultural practices across di erent
regions of India.

Season:

Rice is grown as a Kharif crop, which means it is sown during the monsoon season.
The monsoon rains provide the much-needed moisture for the crop. The sowing period
typically begins from June to July, coinciding with the arrival of the southwest
monsoon, and the crop is harvested around October to November, just as the
monsoon recedes. This timing is crucial because rice plants require consistent rainfall
for growth, and the monsoon ensures that the fields remain flooded, providing the
optimal conditions for rice cultivation. Farmers must also manage the water levels in
their fields to prevent excessive flooding or drought during critical growing stages.

Climate:

Rice is a tropical crop that thrives in hot and humid conditions. The ideal temperature
range for rice cultivation is between 25°C to 30°C, as the crop requires warmth for
germination and growth. Excessively high temperatures can be detrimental, especially
during the flowering and grain formation stages, while lower temperatures can delay
germination. Apart from temperature, rice also requires heavy rainfall, typically
between 150 cm and 300 cm annually, to grow e ectively. This rainfall is crucial during
the vegetative growth phase, where the crop needs a consistent supply of water. The
monsoon rains create the ideal environment for rice by maintaining high humidity
levels and ensuring that the soil is su iciently moist. Consequently, rice is
predominantly grown in regions that receive reliable monsoon rains, such as the Ganga-
Brahmaputra plains, the coastal regions, and river deltas in the south.

Soil:

Rice is typically grown in alluvial soils, which are found in river plains and floodplains.
These soils are rich in nutrients and have good water retention capacity, making them
ideal for rice cultivation. Alluvial soil is fertile and can hold moisture well, which is

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essential for rice as it needs to be submerged in water for most of its growing season. In
addition to alluvial soil, rice also grows well in clayey soils that retain water and help
maintain flooded conditions. This is why rice is often cultivated in paddy fields, where
the fields are flooded with water to create an optimal environment for the rice plants.
The flooded paddy system not only provides adequate moisture but also helps suppress
weeds and control pests, allowing the rice plants to grow without much competition for
resources.

Cultivation Method:

Rice is typically cultivated through the transplantation method, which involves the
growing of rice seedlings in a nursery before transplanting them into flooded fields. In
this method, young rice plants are carefully transplanted into paddy fields, where they
are submerged under water for most of the growing period. This method has been
practiced for centuries and continues to be the most common form of rice cultivation in
India. The flooded field environment helps reduce weed growth and also provides a
stable supply of moisture to the rice plants. In recent years, high-yielding varieties of
rice have been developed to meet the growing demand for food. These varieties are
designed to grow faster and more e iciently, using less water and being more resistant
to pests and diseases. In addition to traditional methods, modern techniques such as
direct seeding (sowing rice directly into the soil rather than transplanting) and
mechanized harvesting are being increasingly adopted to improve productivity and
reduce labor costs.

Geographical Distribution:

Rice cultivation is widespread across India, but it is most prevalent in the eastern and
southern regions of the country. The eastern states like West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar,
and Assam are major rice producers, owing to the fertile alluvial soils and abundant
monsoon rains they receive. West Bengal is the largest producer of rice in India,
followed by states like Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana. The southern states,
including Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, are also significant
rice producers. The coastal areas, including Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, benefit
from high rainfall and long growing seasons. Punjab and Haryana are among the major
irrigated rice-growing regions, where irrigation from canal systems supplements the
monsoon rains, allowing rice to be grown even during dry spells. Additionally, the
northeastern states, such as Nagaland and Manipur, have also emerged as important
rice producers due to their suitable climatic conditions.

aspects of rice cultivation in India, including the climate, soil, cultivation methods,
geographical distribution, and more. It should be well-suited for your ICSE

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 WHEAT

Introduction:

Wheat is one of the most important staple food crops in India, second only to rice in
terms of production. It is a crucial part of the diet for millions of people, especially in the
northern and north-western regions of the country, where it forms the main staple food
in the form of roti or chapati. India is one of the largest producers of wheat in the world,
and it plays a vital role in the agricultural economy. It provides food security for the
growing population and contributes to the rural economy. The majority of wheat grown
in India is consumed domestically, but the surplus is also exported to other countries.
Wheat is a Rabi crop, grown during the winter months, and it requires specific climatic
and soil conditions for optimal growth.

Season:

Wheat is primarily grown during the Rabi season, which is the winter season in India.
The sowing of wheat typically begins in October and November when the temperature
starts to drop, signaling the onset of the winter. The harvest season usually falls
between March and April, once the crop matures and the weather turns dry. The crop
requires a cool climate for its growth, making the winter months the ideal time for
cultivation. The growing period of wheat coincides with the cooler weather, which helps
the plant develop properly. Wheat requires a period of dryness during the harvest stage,
as excess moisture during this time can damage the grains. This cycle ensures a high
yield and good-quality wheat.

Climate:

Wheat requires a cool climate with temperatures ranging between 10°C to 15°C during
its growing period. These temperatures are ideal for the plant to develop and mature
without the risk of heat stress. The crop thrives under moderate rainfall, typically
between 50 cm and 75 cm annually. Rainfall needs to be evenly distributed during the
growing period. However, the critical stage for wheat is the ripening and harvesting
period, during which a dry, sunny climate is essential. Excessive rainfall during the
harvest stage can cause the grains to become damp, making them vulnerable to
spoilage and reducing overall yield. The ideal climatic conditions for wheat cultivation in
India are provided during the Rabi season, which is dry and cool, with a perfect balance
of temperature and precipitation.

Soil:

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Wheat grows best in loamy soils, which are fertile, rich in organic matter, and well-
drained. These soils provide the necessary nutrients for the healthy growth of wheat
plants and ensure that water does not stagnate around the roots. Alluvial soils, which
are found in river plains and floodplains, are particularly suitable for wheat cultivation.
These soils are rich in minerals and nutrients, making them ideal for high agricultural
productivity. Wheat requires well-prepared soil that is aerated and well-structured to
support the crop's root development. Proper soil management practices, including
plowing and irrigation, are important for achieving high yields. Well-drained soil ensures
that excess water does not accumulate around the roots, which could lead to
waterlogging and root diseases.

Cultivation Method:

Wheat cultivation involves a variety of methods, depending on the region and available
resources. The two most common methods of sowing are the broadcasting method
and the drilling method. In the broadcasting method, seeds are scattered evenly
across the soil surface. In the drilling method, seeds are placed in rows at specific
intervals, allowing for better spacing between plants. This method helps in reducing
competition among plants and improving overall crop yield. The cultivation process
often begins with preparing the soil, which may include plowing, harrowing, and leveling
to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. Modern farming has introduced high-yielding
varieties of wheat, which provide better resistance to diseases and pests and increase
overall productivity. In areas with inadequate rainfall, wheat farming is often supported
by irrigation, which is essential for ensuring consistent water supply during critical
growth stages. The use of mechanized harvesting has also become common in large-
scale wheat cultivation, improving the e iciency and speed of harvest. The harvested
wheat is then stored in safe conditions to prevent spoilage and pests.

Geographical Distribution:

Wheat is primarily grown in the northern and north-western regions of India, where the
climate and soil conditions are most favorable. The main wheat-producing states
include Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan.
Among these, Punjab is the largest producer, accounting for a significant portion of
India's total wheat production. The Indo-Gangetic plains, which include regions of
Punjab, Haryana, western Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Madhya Pradesh, provide the
fertile soil and favorable climate necessary for wheat cultivation. The north-western
plains and parts of Rajasthan are also important wheat-growing areas, with irrigation
systems playing a vital role in supporting crop growth. Wheat cultivation is concentrated
in areas with canal irrigation systems, particularly in Punjab and Haryana, where water
from the Indira Gandhi Canal and Bhakra Nangal Canal is extensively used to support
agriculture. These regions benefit from the combination of alluvial soils, adequate
water supply, and the perfect climate for wheat cultivation.

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 PULSES

Introduction:

Pulses are an essential part of India’s agricultural system, providing an important source
of vegetable protein. They are commonly consumed in the form of dal and play a vital
role in the Indian diet, especially for vegetarian populations. India is the largest
producer and consumer of pulses globally. Common pulses grown in India include
chickpeas (gram), lentils, moong beans, pigeon peas (toor dal), and urad dal. Pulses
are cultivated during both the Kharif and Rabi seasons, depending on the climate and
region.

Climatic Conditions:

Pulses grow best in a moderate climate with temperatures ranging between 20°C to
25°C. This temperature range is ideal for their growth, allowing the plants to develop
properly without the risk of damage from extreme heat. In terms of rainfall, pulses
require about 50 cm to 75 cm of annual rainfall. The rainfall should be moderate and
spread out evenly, as excessive rainfall, especially during the ripening stage, can
damage the crops. Pulses are relatively drought-resistant compared to other crops,
which makes them suitable for regions with low rainfall or areas where irrigation is
limited.

Soil:

Pulses thrive in dry, light soils. These soils are generally well-drained and do not retain
excess moisture, which is crucial for pulse crops since they do not like waterlogging.
Light soils, such as sandy soils or loamy soils, provide the necessary aeration and
drainage required for the plants' roots to grow well. Pulses are hardy crops and can grow
in less fertile soils compared to other crops, but they perform best in soils that are not
too heavy or clayey. These soils also help in preventing root diseases and improve
overall crop health. The ability of pulses to grow in dry and light soils makes them a
valuable crop in regions where other crops may not thrive due to poor soil conditions.

Geographical Distribution:

Pulses are grown in a variety of regions across India, particularly in the central,
northern, and western parts of the country. States like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra,
Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh are major producers of pulses.
The Indo-Gangetic plains and Deccan Plateau are some of the key regions where
pulses are cultivated, owing to favorable soil and climatic conditions. In particular,
Madhya Pradesh is known as the "pulse bowl" of India due to its large-scale

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production of pulses like chickpeas, lentils, and pigeon peas. Pulses are generally
grown in both Rabi and Kharif seasons, with specific varieties suited to each season
based on the rainfall and temperature conditions.

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 BIBLIOGRAPHY

 Geography for ICSE Class 10 by A.K. Sharma

 ICSE Geography Class 10 by T. R. Sharma
 Together with ICSE Geography for Class 10 by S. P. Pandey
 Total Geography Class 10 ICSE

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PICTURE GALLERY

RICE CULTIVATION

WHEAT CULTIVATION

PULSES CULTIVATION

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